We hear the word “stress” a lot.

What exactly is it?

Stress is the body’s physical, mental or emotional reaction to any change that requires an adjustment.

Whilst short bursts of stress can act as a positive stimulating driving factor if it becomes chronic it is one of the most damaging things we can do to our body lowering our immune system and undermining our ability to repair and cope with our environment often leading the way to serious dis-ease.

Finding ways to manage it with foods and natural supplements is the answer.

The best foods for helping your body cope with stress are called adaptogens. 

These support your adrenal system and stave off fatigue and weight gain (due to increased cortisol).

Having had glandular fever and ME when I was younger I know what it feels like to have a stressed out low energy body and finding foods that can help you cope both physically and emotionally are key.

I thought I would share my tried and tested favourites which are:

Chaga

Chaga mushroom is a type of fungus that grows mainly on the bark of birch trees in cold climates.

It can be purchased as a powder or whole pieces. I usually simmer up the powder for 10-15 mins, strain and drink. It is not unpleasant to drink and I find it very restorative and supportive.

Liquorice Root

Whilst an acquired taste for some over the years of adding it to homemade chai I have got used to it and don’t mind chewing it raw.

Helps to regulate hormones like cortisol helping your body cope.

Highly anti-inflammatory and excellent for leaky gut something a lot of people suffer with unknowingly.

Nettle

Nettle is super nourishing for anyone experiencing stress or burnout.

Contains antioxidants great for reducing stress related inflammation.

Vitamin B complex and iron help support energy levels.

I dry the tops and powder them down. Add fresh tops to smoothies or collect the seeds and have them on my porridge or munch on them when out walking.

Goji Berry

The goji berry is known to harmonize and increase the Jing energy of the adrenals resulting in enhanced stamina and strength and I was prescribed these mixed with raisins as a tea to drink daily by a Tibetan herbalist. I found it very effective and drink it a lot just because I love the taste!

Rhodiola

Is known as arctic or golden root.

You can take this as a supplement and I would recommend this alongside supporting your system with the foods above.

It has a positive effect on the immune system and helps with depression.

So let that stress go! Take a deep a breath and try some of the above and let me know how you get on x